A Program of the Georgia Forestry Commission

A Natural Community

Hammonds Ferry, a community along the Savannah River in North Augusta, South Carolina, was developed with nature in mind. There’s more than 700 homes, up to 40,000 square feet of retail, and 30,000 square feet of professional space. The developers created a sense of community by building homes closer together so conversations can be had from the front porch. At the end of one block there might be a restaurant and another corner may have a store with residential lofts above it. Everything is within walking distance, including the downtown area of the community.

10-15% of storm water from Hammonds Ferry runs into the Savannah River, and the water that does enter has been treated to remove sediment and chemicals. The only other problem: power lines which run into downtown Augusta cut across the property. This was overcome by creating a 1.5 acre farm under the lines. The farm offers a subscription service to Hammonds Ferry residents in which a fresh bag of produce will be delivered to their doorstep every day.

The riverfront trails draw walkers, runners, and cyclists, encouraging a healthy lifestyle. This community will help to shape our future and will hopefully make other developers consider creating improvements to their properties.